#6 on this list
Ultimate Six Plus
Ortlieb
The Ortlieb Ultimate Six Plus is an iconic, quick-release handlebar bag designed primarily for touring riders, commuters, and long-distance road travelers. Unlike soft bikepacking rolls that lash to the bars with straps, the Ultimate Six Plus locks into a rigid, bar-mounted bracket. This setup delivers rapid one-handed detachment at stops, turning the bag into a secure shoulder pack for carrying valuables, cameras, and documents off the bike. Constructed from waterproof, PVC-free Cordura-blend fabric with welded seams, the bag offers complete protection against persistent downpours. A magnetic lid closure snaps shut easily and stays latched over rough asphalt and gravel paths. Inside, a rigid internal frame maintains the bag's structural integrity, stopping it from collapsing or resting against the front wheel. The top lid on modern iterations features a transparent, waterproof compartment designed specifically for smartphones or paper maps. The main drawback of the Ultimate Six Plus is its rigid mounting system. The mounting block claims permanent handlebar space and is incompatible with many aero bars, closely spaced computer mounts, and aggressive drop-bar configurations. Additionally, the overall system weight is noticeable on the steering axis, which can make unloaded front ends feel slightly sluggish on quick gravel descents. **Highlights** - Fully waterproof construction with IP54 rating and welded seams - Quick-release mounting bracket permits instant removal at stops - Magnetic lid closure seals smoothly with one hand - Transparent touchscreen-friendly lid compartment for phones or maps - Rigid internal structure prevents sagging regardless of load **Watch-outs** - Mounting bracket requires permanent clamp space near the stem - Substantial baseline weight of 20.1 oz for the 7L size - Rigid geometry makes it poorly suited for rough, technical singletrack
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#7 on this list
Frame Bag
Restrap
The Restrap Frame Bag is a handmade wedge-style pack out of the UK, constructed to withstand brutal conditions while providing flexible storage across road, gravel, and commuter platforms. Offered in small (2.5L), medium (3.5L), and large (4.5L) volumes, this bag fits neatly along the top tube while sloping down toward the downtube, leaving the seat tube clear for a full-size water bottle cage. Restrap builds the bag with a rugged hybrid of Dimension-Polyant VX21 and 1000D textured nylon, providing exceptional tear strength and defense against road debris. Rubberized strapping secures the pack firmly to the bike frame without scratching paintwork, a thoughtful touch appreciated by riders on carbon and custom steel builds. YKK zippers with oversized cord pulls allow easy operation even when wearing thick winter gloves, and an internal document sleeve helps keep flat essentials organized. While the materials are inherently waterproof, the bag relies on stitched construction with water-resistant zippers rather than fully welded seams, meaning sustained multi-hour rainfall will eventually permit light moisture ingress. Riders should also note that the wedge shape narrows significantly toward the front, limiting the width of items you can slide into the front pocket. **Highlights** - Hard-wearing blend of VX21 and textured 1000D nylon - Wedge profile leaves room for a vertical water bottle cage - Rubberized mounting straps protect bike paint from abrasion - Heavy-duty YKK zippers with glove-friendly cord pulls - Internal mesh organizer keeps small repair items accessible **Watch-outs** - Water-resistant rather than fully submersible in prolonged downpours - Tapered front compartment restricts storage of wide tools or food - Sizing requires close attention to frame angle compatibility
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Ultimate Six Plus | Frame Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Tare Weight | 20.1 oz (7L version) | — |
| Volume Options | 5L, 7L, 8.5L | — |
| Fabric | PU-coated Cordura blend (PVC-free) | — |
| Closure Style | Magnetic flap lid | — |
| Weather Rating | IP54 waterproof and dustproof | — |
| Mounting System | Quick-release handlebar bracket | — |
| Origin | — | Handmade in the United Kingdom |
| Primary Fabrics | — | VX21 laminate and textured nylon |
| Capacity Options | — | Small (2.5L), Medium (3.5L), Large (4.5L) |
| Profile | — | Wedge partial frame pack |
| Approximate Price | — | Around $130 |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Ultimate Six Plus
- Completely waterproof construction with durable, PVC-free welded Cordura
- Quick-release bracket enables instant removal and convenient shoulder carry
- Self-closing magnetic lid allows effortless one-handed access while riding
- Rigid internal frame prevents sagging and keeps contents neatly organized
- Substantial baseline weight compared to modern soft-sided bikepacking bags
- Mounting bracket occupies valuable cockpit space around the stem
- Not well-suited for rough, technical singletrack due to cantilevered bounce
Frame Bag
- Wedge shape leaves room for a seat tube water bottle cage
- Rubberized mounting straps reduce frame abrasion
- Durable VX21 and textured nylon resist heavy abrasion
- Available in three sizes to suit varying frame geometries
- Stitched construction allows moisture ingress in sustained downpours
- Front taper narrows usable space for wider items
- Requires precise measurement to ensure frame cage clearance
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.